Taiwan to boost talent for biotech industry

Singapore: Taiwan will focus on developing a talent pool for its biotechnology industry in the next phase of the Republic of China (ROC) government plan to promote the sector.

A Taiwan Today news report said the country's Minister without Portfolio Mr Chang Shan-cheng said "from 2013, the second stage will focus on enhancing Taiwan's talent pool and promoting exports of medical care services". The government will fund $10.26 million (NT$300 million) for a three-year talent training program.

Taiwan, which already has strong medical devices and pharmaceuticals industries, is pushing for the growth of its biotechnology industry with various policy initiatives and funds.

The news report further said that the the government will subsidize academic and state-funded organizations to create 100 post-doctoral positions in public-private research projects every year.

The government will also work with the private sector to identify services suitable for export and is looking to encourage the establishment of biotech venture capital firms with funds.